5 Not To Miss Places In Munnar

What happens when three pristine mountain streams converge? The result is an even more enchanting hill station that feels tailor-made for travellers. Nestled in Kerala’s treasure trove, Munnar is truly a jewel—perfect for family vacations, romantic escapes, and everything in between. Beyond its postcard-worthy landscapes, the town offers a host of experiences that make every visit memorable. To help you choose the most exciting ones, here are five amazing things to do in Munnar.

# Walk through the fragrant tea plantations

A trip to Munnar feels incomplete without wandering through its lush, aromatic tea gardens. Vast emerald-green estates stretch as far as the eye can see, earning Munnar its title as Kerala’s tea capital. Strolling through these plantations offers not just scenic views but also a chance to interact with plantation workers and learn about the traditional art of tea harvesting. While most estates are privately owned, guided tours allow visitors to explore them for a few hours.

Two tea estates stand out as must-visits. The Lockhart Tea Factory and Museum, located about 30 km from Munnar town, offers a complete experience—guided plantation walks, factory tours, interactions with workers, and even tea-tasting sessions. The Kanan Devan Hills Tea Museum, on the other hand, focuses more on the technical aspects of tea-making, giving visitors an in-depth look at the process inside the factory. Exploring a tea plantation is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Munnar.

# Go on an adventurous hike

Surrounded by rolling hills and misty valleys, Munnar is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. It offers several short and moderately challenging trails, making it ideal even for beginners looking for a light adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.

The Phantom Mountain trek involves a steep ascent of around 400 metres. Though demanding, the panoramic views from the summit make every step worthwhile. Another popular route takes you through the Kolukkumalai tea estate, starting from Kurangani at an elevation of about 3,800 feet. This 3 km trek is accompanied by cool mountain winds, sightings of rare birds, and ends with a spectacular sunrise view. The Meesapulimala trek is perfect for those seeking a complete wilderness experience, featuring overnight camping at a base camp situated at 6,000 feet, followed by a thrilling summit climb the next morning.

# Savour the local flavours

Exploring a destination’s culture is incomplete without tasting its local cuisine, and Munnar is no exception. Sampling traditional food here is one of the most memorable experiences for visitors. From humble street food stalls to authentic local eateries, the town offers a delightful range of flavours.

One of the most popular ways to enjoy a traditional meal is through the classic Kerala thali. Affordable yet filling, it allows you to taste a variety of locally prepared dishes in one sitting. The famous Kairali Thali, a vegetarian spread, includes delicacies such as vegetable pachadi, elaneer payasam (tender coconut dessert), mezhukkupuratti (stir-fried vegetables), rice with sambar and rasam, among others. Non-vegetarians will find Munnar equally satisfying, with favourites like Kerala-style parotta paired with flavourful meat or fish curries.

# Try trout fishing

Few experiences are as rewarding as catching your own fish and cooking it fresh. In Munnar, this unique activity can be enjoyed alongside sightseeing. Trout fishing is available in select areas within the tea estates.

Near the Rajamala range lies a trout hatchery where visitors can fish in the clear waters of Sita Devi Lake. Once you’ve caught a trout, you can either release it back into the lake or prepare it for a delicious meal. Since most of these fishing spots fall under Tata Tea’s property, prior permission is required. The company also offers bungalows for rent, ensuring a comfortable and immersive stay.

# Spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr

Wildlife lovers should not miss a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. These gentle mountain goats are often seen grazing calmly and can be observed up close, making for wonderful photo opportunities.

The park is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of flora and fauna thriving within its boundaries. Visitors may also spot elephants roaming freely and can take a short detour to admire the nearby Lakkam Waterfalls. A trip to Eravikulam National Park adds a perfect wildlife touch to your Munnar itinerary.